A State-of-the-Art Review of Wind Turbine Blades: Principles, Flow-Induced Vibrations, Failure, Maintenance, and Vibration Suppression Techniques

Tahir Muhammad Naqash and Md. Mahbub Alam ()
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Tahir Muhammad Naqash: Center for Turbulence Control, Harbin Institute of Technology Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518055, China
Md. Mahbub Alam: Center for Turbulence Control, Harbin Institute of Technology Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518055, China

Energies, 2025, vol. 18, issue 13, 1-35

Abstract: The growing demand for renewable energy has underscored the importance of wind power, with wind turbines playing a pivotal role in sustainable electricity generation. However, wind turbine blades are exposed to various challenges, particularly flow-induced vibrations (FIVs), including vortex-induced vibrations, flutter, and galloping, which significantly impact the performance, efficiency, reliability, and lifespan of turbines. This review presents an in-depth analysis of wind turbine blade technology, covering the fundamental principles of operation, aerodynamic characteristics, material selection, and failure mechanisms. It examines the effects of these vibrations on blade integrity and turbine performance, highlighting the need for effective vibration suppression techniques. The paper also discusses current advancements in maintenance strategies, including active and passive vibration control methods, sensor networks, and drone-based inspections, aimed at improving turbine reliability and reducing operational costs. Furthermore, emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI)-driven prognostic assessments and novel materials for vibration damping, are explored as potential solutions to enhance turbine performance. The review emphasizes the importance of continued research in addressing the challenges posed by FIVs, particularly for offshore turbines operating in harsh environments.

Keywords: flow-induced vibrations; wind turbine blade; failure; maintenance; aerodynamic efficiency (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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